By Nirmal Ghosh, Thailand Correspondent

BANGKOK: - Asked what he thought his prospects were in an upcoming election about a year ago, Mr Abhisit Vejjajiva, then leader of the opposition, smiled sardonically and replied: 'What are they saying at Ladbrokes?'

Ladbrokes is a London-based gambling company. Mr Abhisit's response, at a gaggle with foreign journalists in a restaurant in Bangkok, was a frank reflection of the casino-like nature of Thai politics.

But it also spoke of his own upbringing. Mr Abhisit was born in Newcastle upon Tyne to Dr Athasit Vejjajiva and Dr Sodsai Vejjajiva, both medical doctors and professors. His father was also an influential technocrat, who was appointed deputy minister of public health following the 1991 military coup.

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